Splice enclosure arrangement for fiber optic cables

ABSTRACT

An optical fiber cable includes a first cable segment; a second cable segment; and a splice enclosure. The first cable segment can have a different configuration than the second cable segment. The splice enclosure is coupled to the strength member and strength component of the first cable segment and the second cable segment. One example splice enclosure includes a first enclosure body having a first threaded connection region and a second enclosure body having a second threaded connection region. Another example splice enclosure includes a tubular enclosure with two end caps. Cable retention members are positioned within the splice enclosure at fixed axial positions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/421,353, filed Dec. 9, 2010 and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 61/334,815, filed May 14, 2010, whichapplications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a fiber optic datatransmission system. More particularly, the present disclosure relatesto splice configurations for use with fiber optic data transmissionsystems.

BACKGROUND

Fiber optic telecommunications technology is becoming more prevalent inpart because service providers want to deliver high bandwidthcommunication capabilities to customers. A typical fiber optictelecommunications system includes a network of fiber optic cables(e.g., distribution cables or branch cables such as drop cables or stubcables) routed from a central location (e.g., a service provider'scentral office) to remote locations in close proximity to subscribers.The fiber optic telecommunications systems also can include additionalcomponents, such as fiber distribution hubs housing optical splittersfor splitting optical signals and drop terminals providing interconnectlocations for facilitating connecting subscribers to the fiber opticnetwork.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,349,605 A1, which is hereby incorporated herein byreference in its entirety, discloses a fiber optic network including adistribution cable having factory terminated breakout locations. Eachfactory terminated breakout location includes a tether having a free endconnectorized with a factory installed multi-fiber connector. In thefield, the multi-fiber connector allows the tether to be quicklyconnected to a branch cable. One end of the branch cable includes amulti-fiber connector adapted to interconnect with the multi-fiberconnector of the tether to provide optical connections between theoptical fibers of the branch cable and the optical fibers of the tether.The other end of the branch cable is connected to a drop terminal.

When an optical connector is installed at the end of an optical cablesuch as a branch cable, it is often desirable to have a certain lengthof excess fiber that extends beyond a jacketed end portion of the cableto facilitate the connector installation process. For example, theexcess fiber length facilitates low pressure polishing of a ferrule ofthe fiber optic connector and also facilitates mechanically coupling thefiber optic connector to the fiber optic cable. However, due to frictionwithin the fiber optic cable, it can be difficult to withdraw asufficient length of fiber from the end of the cable for use during theinstallation process. This is particularly true for longer lengths ofcable (e.g., cable longer than 18 feet). Improved techniques forconnectorizing fiber optic cables are needed.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to techniques for facilitating installinga fiber optic connector at the end of a fiber optic cable. One aspect ofthe disclosure involves splicing a first fiber optic cable to a secondfiber optic cable. The second fiber optic cable may bepre-connectorized.

In certain embodiments, a plurality of splice enclosure components arepositioned to form a splice enclosure that encloses the portion of anoptical fiber of the first cable that is spliced (e.g., fusion spliced,mechanically spliced, or otherwise spliced) to an optical fiber of thesecond cable. The splice enclosure protects the optical fibers at thesite of the splice and securely holds the strength members of the fiberoptic cables. Furthermore, splice enclosure components are positioned toform a cable enclosure that encloses the splice enclosure and exposedportions of the fiber optic cables.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a second cable segment optically coupledto a first cable segment at a splice point that is secured within asplice enclosure in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 shows one example implementation of a first cable segmentsuitable to be spliced to a second cable segment in accordance withaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows the first cable segment of FIG. 2 being wound around amandrel in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 shows one example implementation of a second cable segmentsuitable to be spliced to the first cable segment in accordance withaspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 5A and 5B provide one example set of connectors suitable for usewith the connector arrangement terminating one end of the second cablesegment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows one example implementation of a splice enclosurearrangement suitable for use in coupling together the first ends of thefirst and second cable segments in accordance with aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 7 shows a flowchart illustrating an example splicing process bywhich the second cable segment can be spliced to the first cable segmentusing the example enclosure arrangement of FIG. 6 in accordance withaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 8 shows the splice enclosure arrangement of FIG. 6 with first andsecond enclosure bodies secured together in accordance with aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIG. 9 shows the splice enclosure arrangement of FIG. 6 sealed within aheat shrink tube in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 10 provides one example first preparation process by which thetechnician can implement preparing the first cable segment for splicingin accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate the steps of the first preparation process ofFIG. 10 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 13 provides one example second preparation process by which thetechnician can implement preparing the second cable segment for splicingin accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate the steps of the second preparation processof FIG. 13 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 16 provides one example mounting process by which the techniciancan implement securing the enclosure arrangement of FIG. 6 to the cableat the splice location in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 17-23 show one example embodiment of a cable retention membersuitable for use in implementing the attachment step of the mountingprocess of FIG. 16 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 24-29 show one example embodiment of a second cable retentionmember suitable for use in implementing the attachment step of themounting process of FIG. 16 in accordance with aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 30 shows another example implementation of a splice enclosurearrangement suitable for use in coupling together the first ends of thefirst and second cable segments to form the cable of FIG. 1 inaccordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 31-33 show an example enclosure tube of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 30 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 34-38 show an example first end cap of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 30 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 39-43 show an example second end cap of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 30 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 44-49 show one example embodiment of a first cable retentionmember suitable for use in securing the first cable segment to thesplice enclosure arrangement of FIG. 30 in accordance with aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIGS. 50-55 show one example second cable retention member suitable foruse in securing the second cable segment to the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 30 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 56-58 show one example gasket suitable for use in sealing the endsof the enclosure tube of the splice enclosure arrangement of FIG. 30 inaccordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 59-63 show one example strain relief device suitable for providingstrain relief to at least the first cable segment in accordance withaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure arrangement of FIG.30 mounted over an example spliced optical fiber cable in accordancewith aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 65 shows another example implementation of a splice enclosurearrangement suitable for use in coupling together the first ends of thefirst and second cable segments to form the cable of FIG. 1 inaccordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 66-67 show an example enclosure tube of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 68-74 show an example first end cap of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 75-81 show an example second end cap of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 82-86 show one example cable retention member suitable for use insecuring the cable segments to the splice enclosure arrangement of FIG.65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 87 shows an end view of the enclosure tube of FIGS. 65-67 so thatthe ledge and shoulders are visible in accordance with aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 88 shows an enlarged sectional view of the enclosure tube of FIGS.65-67 to show the ledge and shoulders in accordance with aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 89 shows an enlarged sectional view of an end of the enclosure tubeof FIGS. 65-67 with a cable retention member receiving a cable segmentand positioned within the enclosure tube in accordance with aspects ofthe disclosure;

FIGS. 90-92 show one example lock member of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 93-96 show one example gasket suitable for use in sealing an endof the enclosure tube of the splice enclosure arrangement of FIG. 65 inaccordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 97-100 show another example gasket suitable for use in sealing anend of the enclosure tube of the splice enclosure arrangement of FIG. 65in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 101-106 show one example stabilizer of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 107-112 show another example stabilizer of the splice enclosurearrangement of FIG. 65 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIGS. 113-117 show one example strain relief device suitable forproviding strain relief to at least the first cable segment inaccordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 118 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cable and spliceenclosure of FIG. 120 taken along the 118-118 line in accordance withaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 119 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the cable and spliceenclosure of FIG. 120 taken along the 119-119 line in accordance withaspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 120 is a perspective view of the splice enclosure of FIG. 65assembled over a splice location in accordance with aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 121 is a perspective view of an example cable in whichimplementations of the splice enclosure of FIG. 65 cover multiple splicelocations in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; and

FIG. 122 is a side elevational view of an example cable in which analternative splice enclosure is positioned on the cable after splicingthe fibers and before assembling the enclosure in accordance withaspects of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In many circumstances, fiber optic cables may be manufactured in longsegments. For example, fiber optic cable may be several hundred meterslong. One end of fiber optic cable may be connected to a connectorarrangement, e.g., a drop terminal, and the opposite end may beunconnectorized. To attach a connector to the unconnectorized end fiberoptic cable, terminal segments of optical fibers preferably extendbeyond the end of fiber optic cable. For example, when attaching amulti-fiber connector to fiber optic cable, it may be desirable for theterminal segments of optical fibers to extend approximately seven inches(˜18 centimeters) beyond the ends of jacket.

Several issues may arise when attempting to expose terminal segments ofoptical fibers when attaching a connector to fiber optic cable. Forexample, friction within fiber optic cable may prevent the exposure ofterminal segments of optical fibers by telescopically sliding opticalfibers out of an end of buffer tube when fiber optic cable is longerthan a certain length. In many instances, optical fibers can only slidewithin buffer tube when the length of fiber optic cable is less thaneighteen feet. Consequently, an operation other than sliding opticalfibers within buffer tube must be used to connectorize a fiber opticcable that is longer than eighteen feet.

In accordance with some aspects, FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of anexample telecommunications cable 100 having a first end terminated at aconnector arrangement 130. The example cable 100 includes a first cablesegment 110 having a length L1 of at least eighteen feet long and asecond cable segment 120 having a length 12 of no more than eighteenfeet. A first end 111 of the first cable segment 110 is spliced to afirst end 121 of the second cable segment 120 to form the exampletelecommunications cable 100. In some implementations, the first cablesegment 110 has substantially the same characteristics as the secondcable segment 120. In other implementations, however, the two cablesegments 110, 120 can have different characteristics.

In general, this paper discloses implementation techniques for splicingtogether at least two optical fibers of at least two cable segments. Inaccordance with some aspects, this paper discloses techniques forsplicing together two different types of fiber optic cable segments. Forexample, in some implementations of this disclosure, a first opticalcable including a first type of strength members can be spliced to asecond optical cable including a second type of strength members. In oneimplementation, the strength members of the first cable segment can bemore rigid (i.e., less flexible) than the strength members of the secondcable segment.

Referring to FIG. 1, each cable segment 110, 120 includes at least oneoptical fiber. The optical fibers are preferably silica-based, singlemode fibers, but they can be any type of optical fiber including, forexample, a multi-mode or dispersion shifted optical fibers. The lengthL1 of the first cable segment 110 is greater than the length L2 of thesecond cable segment 120. Accordingly, only a portion of the first cablesegment 110 adjacent the first end 111 is shown in FIG. 1.

A second end 129 of the second cable segment 120 is terminated at afiber optic connector arrangement 130. For example, in someimplementations, the optical fibers at the second end 129 of the secondcable segment 120 can be terminated at a multi-fiber connector. In otherimplementations, the optical fibers can be terminated at multiplemulti-fiber connectors. In still other implementations, the opticalfibers at the second end 129 of the second cable segment 120 can beterminated at multiple single fiber connectors. In certainimplementations, the fiber optic connector arrangement 130 is a hardenedconnector arrangement as will be described in more detail herein.

Splicing the second cable segment 120 to the first cable segment 110optically couples together the optical fibers of the cable segments 110,120 at a splice location. The fused optical fibers at the splicelocation are protected within a splice enclosure arrangement 140, whichwill be described in more detail herein. In accordance with certainaspects, strength members of the cable segments 110, 120 can be securedto the splice enclosure arrangement 140 to provide strain reliefprotection to the cable 100. A protection layer 150 surrounds the spiceenclosure arrangement 140 and the first ends 111, 121 of the cablesegments 110, 120 to protect any exposed optical fibers from dust, dirt,or other contaminants.

FIG. 2 shows one example implementation of a first cable segment 110suitable to be spliced to a second cable segment 120. The example firstcable segment 110 includes an outer jacket 118 defining at least a firstpassage 114 for containing at least one optical fiber 112 and at least asecond passage 116 for containing at least one strength member 117. Inone implementation, the outer jacket 118 includes a central passage 114for containing optical fibers 112 and two passages 116 on opposite sidesof the central passage 114 for containing strength members 117. In otherimplementations, the first cable segment 110 can include greater orfewer strength members 117 enclosed within the jacket 118.

In accordance with some aspects, the first cable segment 110 has anelongated transverse cross-sectional profile (e.g., a flattenedcross-sectional profile, an oblong cross-sectional profile, an obroundcross-sectional profile, etc.) defined by the outer jacket 118. Themajor axis and the minor axis of the cross-sectional profile intersectperpendicularly at a lengthwise axis of the cable segment 110. Theconstruction of the first cable segment 110 allows the cable segment 110to be bent more easily along a plane P1 that coincides with the minoraxis than along a plane that coincides with the major axis. Such aconstruction allows the first cable segment 110 to be readily used forapplications in which drop cables are normally used and also allows thefirst cable segment 110 to be wrapped around a cable storage spoolhaving a relatively small diameter without damaging the cable segment110. Other implementations of the first cable segment 110 can haveround, oval, or other transverse cross-sectional profiles, however.

In accordance with some aspects, the outer jacket 118 can be shapedthrough an extrusion process and can be made by any number of differenttypes of polymeric materials. In certain embodiments, the outer jacket118 can have a construction the resists post-extrusion shrinkage of theouter jacket 118. For example, the outer jacket 118 can include ashrinkage reduction material disposed within a polymeric base material(e.g., polyethylene). U.S. Pat. No. 7,379,642, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety, describes an exemplary use ofshrinkage reduction material within the base material of a fiber opticcable jacket.

In some implementations, the first passage 114 of the outer jacket 118is sized to receive one or more of the bend insensitive fibers 112. Thebend insensitive fibers 112 are preferably unbuffered and in certainembodiments have outer diameters in the range of 230-270 μm. In oneimplementation, the first passage 114 is sized to receive at leasttwelve of the bend insensitive fibers 112. When the fibers 112 arepositioned within the first passage 114, it is preferred for the fibers112 to occupy less than 60% of the total transverse cross-sectional areadefined by the first passage 114. In some implementations, structuressuch water-swellable fibers, water-swellable tape, or water-swellableyarn can be provided within the passage 114 to prevent water frommigrating along the first passage 114. In other implementations,water-blocking gel may be provided within the first passage 114.

In accordance with some implementations, the strength members 117 of thefirst cable segment 110 have a transverse cross-sectional profile thatmatches the transverse cross-sectional profile of the second passage116. In one implementation, each strength members 117 has a width thatis greater than a thickness of the strength member 117. In certainimplementations, the strength members 117 are bonded to the outer jacket118. For example, the bonding between the strength members 117 and theouter jacket 118 can be chemical bonding or thermal bonding.

In accordance with some aspects, each strength members 117 has aconstruction that is highly flexible and highly strong in tension. Forexample, in certain implementations, the strength members 117 providethe vast majority of the tensile load capacity of the first cablesegment 110. In certain implementations, each strength member 117 alsohas a flexibility that allows the strength member 117 to be wrapped atleast 360 degrees around a mandrel 170 (see FIG. 3) having a 10millimeter outer diameter for one hour without undergoing/experiencingmeaningful deterioration/degradation of the tensile strength propertiesof the strength member 117.

In certain embodiments, the strength member 107 is formed by a generallyflat layer of reinforcing elements (e.g., fibers or yarns such as aramidfibers or yarns) embedded or otherwise integrated within a binder toform a flat reinforcing structure (e.g., a structure such as asheet-like structure, a film-like structure, or a tape-like structure).In one example embodiment, the binder is a polymeric material suchethylene acetate acrylite (e.g., UV-cured, etc.), silicon (e.g., RTV,etc.), polyester films (e.g., biaxially oriented polyethyleneterephthalate polyester film, etc.), and polyisobutylene. In otherexample instances, the binder may be a matrix material, an adhesivematerial, a finish material, or another type of material that binds,couples or otherwise mechanically links together reinforcing elements.

In other embodiments, the strength member 107 can have a glassreinforced polymer (GRP) construction. The glass reinforced polymer caninclude a polymer base material reinforced by a plurality of glassfibers such as E-glass, S-glass or other types of glass fiber. Thepolymer used in the glass reinforced polymer is preferably relativelysoft and flexible after curing. For example, in one embodiment, thepolymer has a Shore A hardness less than 50 after curing. In otherembodiments, the polymer has a Shore A hardness less than 46 aftercuring. In certain other embodiments, the polymer has a Shore A hardnessin the range of about 34-46.

Additional details regarding the example first cable segment 110 can befound in U.S. application Ser. No. 12/607,748, filed Oct. 28, 2009, andtitled “Flat Drop Cable,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. Of course, other types of fiberoptic cables having different tensile strength and flexibilitycharacteristics can be used as the first cable segment.

FIG. 4 shows one example implementation of a second cable segment 120suitable to be spliced to the first cable segment 110. The second cablesegment 120 includes a cable jacket 128 enclosing at least one opticalfiber 122. In one implementation, the optical fiber 122 is looselyreceived within a buffer tube 124. Preferably, buffer tube 124 includesat least one waterblocking substance, for example, a gel, grease, and/ora superabsorbent material. In some implementations, the second fibercable segment 120 has a generally flat configuration. For example, thejacket 128 can define generally arcuate sections 125 and generallyflat-sided sections 123. Other implementations of the second cablesegment 120, however, can have round, oval, or other transversecross-sectional profiles.

The second cable segment 120 also includes at least one strengthcomponent 127. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the optical transmissioncomponent 122 is disposed between two strength components 127. In otherimplementations, however, greater or fewer strength components 127 canbe used. In accordance with certain aspects, the strength components 127have both tensile and anti-buckling characteristics. In someimplementations, the strength components 127 are solid, rod-like membersformed of dielectric materials. For example, in one implementation, astrength component 127 includes glass filaments impregnated and bondedtogether with a resin to define a single unit having a tensile strengthrating of about 500 Newtons @ 0.5% strain.

In some implementations, the cable 120 can include one or more tensilestrength members 126 (e.g., a group of fiberglass strands). In otherimplementations, however, the strength components 127 provide thetensile strength of the second cable segment 120. Additional detailsregarding the example second cable segment 120 can be found in U.S. Pat.No. 6,542,674, titled “Fiber Optic Cables with Strength Members,” andissued Apr. 1, 2003 to Corning Cable Systems, LLC, the disclosure ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Of course, other typesof fiber optic cables having different tensile strength and flexibilitycharacteristics can be used as the second cable segment.

In some implementations, the connector arrangement 130 terminating thesecond end 129 of the second cable segment 120 is a plug-type connector.In one implementation, the plug-type connector is configured tointerface directly with a receptacle-type connector. In anotherimplementation, the plug-type connector is configured to interface withanother plug-type connector at an adapter. In other implementations, theconnector arrangement 130 terminating the second end 129 of the secondcable segment 120 is a receptacle-type connector.

FIGS. 5A and 5B provide one example set of connectors suitable for usewith the connector arrangement 130. An example plug-type connector 500is shown in FIG. 5A and an example receptacle-type connector 500′ isshown in FIG. 5B. The first example connector 500 is sized and shaped tointerface with the second example connector 500′ without an adapter. Insome implementations, the plug 500 and receptacle 500′ are threadedtogether.

The plug-type connector 500 includes a ferrule 510 at which one or moreoptical fibers 511 are terminated. In some implementations, the ferrule510 terminates multiple (e.g., two, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty-four,forty-eight, seventy-two, etc.) optical fibers 511. In the exampleshown, the ferrule 510 terminates twelve optical fibers 511. The ferrule510 defines keying openings 512 at either side of the optical fibers511. The ferrule 510 is enclosed within a shroud 514 that defines keyingand latching features. The shroud 514 and ferrule 510 extend forwardlyof a connector base 515. The shroud 514 extends beyond the ferrule 510.The shroud 514 defines a first keying channel 520 and a second keyingchannel 522 above and below the ferrule 510, respectively.

The receptacle-type connector 500′ also includes a ferrule 510′ at whichone or more optical fibers 511′ are terminated. In some implementations,the ferrule 510′ terminates multiple (e.g., two, eight, twelve, sixteen,twenty-four, forty-eight, seventy-two, etc.) optical fibers 511. In theexample shown, the ferrule 510′ terminates twelve optical fibers 511′.The ferrule 510′ defines keying projections 512′ at either side of theoptical fibers 511′. The projections 512′ are configured to be insertedinto the keying openings 512 of the plug ferrule 510 to facilitatealignment of the ferrules 510, 510′.

The receptacle ferrule 510′ is enclosed within a connector body 515′that defines a cavity 514′ that is sized and shaped to receive theshroud 514 of the plug 500. The connector base 515′ is configured tosurround the shroud 514. In some implementations, the connector base515′ latches, screws, or otherwise secures to the shroud 514 to retainthe plug 500 and the receptacle 500′ in a mated configuration. A firstkeying projection 520′ and a second keying projection 522′ arepositioned within the cavity 514′ above and below the ferrule 510′,respectively. In some implementations, the first and second keyingprojections 520′, 522′ have different shapes and/or sizes to facilitatefinding the correct orientation of the plug and receptacle.

In some implementations, the connectors 500, 500′ are hardened fiberoptic connectors. For example, hardened connectors 500, 500′ may includean environmental seal when interfaced together to protect the ferrules511, 511′ from dust, dirt, or other contaminants. In someimplementations, an environmental dust cap can be mounted to theconnectors 500, 500′ to protect the ferrules 511, 511′ prior todeployment of the FDH 200 or prior to connection of the connectors 500,500′.

Additional details regarding the example connector plug 500 andreceptacle 500′ can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,264,402 to Theuerkorn etal., issued Sep. 4, 2007, and titled Multi-fiber optic receptacle andplug assembly, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein.

Referring to FIGS. 6-29, one example system and process for splicingtogether the first and second cable segments 110, 120 are shown. FIG. 6shows one example implementation 200 of a splice enclosure arrangement140 (FIG. 1) suitable for use in coupling together the first ends 111,121 of the first and second cable segments 110, 120. The exampleenclosure arrangement 200 includes a first enclosure assembly 210 (seeFIG. 8) and a second enclosure assembly 220 (see FIG. 9) that areconfigured to attach together to enclose a splice sleeve 250 at a splicelocation.

The first enclosure assembly 210 includes an enclosure body 211 defininga generally hollow interior 212 having an open end 213 and a closed end214. The first enclosure assembly 210 also includes a first cableretention member 230 that is sized and shaped to fit within the firstenclosure body 211. In certain implementations, the first cableretention member 230 is retained at the closed end 214 of the firstenclosure body 211. Strength members 117 of the first cable segment 110can be secured to the first cable retention member 230 to inhibit damageto the splice from pull on the first cable segment 110.

The second enclosure assembly 220 includes a body 221 defining agenerally hollow interior 222 having an open end 223 and a closed end224. The second enclosure assembly 220 also includes a second cableretention member 240 that is sized and shaped to fit within the secondenclosure body 221. In certain implementations, the second cableretention member 240 is retained at the closed end 224 of the secondenclosure body 221. Strength components 127 of the second cable segment120 can be secured to the second cable retention member 240 to inhibitdamage to the splice from pull on the second cable segment 120.

The first enclosure body 211 and the second enclosure body 221 areconfigured to be secured together. The first end 213 of the firstenclosure body 211 defines a connection section 215 and the first end223 of the second enclosure body 221 defines a second connection section225. For example, in one implementation, the first end 213 of the firstenclosure body 211 can define a threaded connection region 215 on anexterior surface of the first body 211 and the first end 223 of thesecond enclosure body 221 can define a threaded connection region 225 onan inner surface of the body 221 that is configured to engage thethreaded surface 215 on the first enclosure body 211.

FIG. 7 shows a flowchart illustrating an example splicing process 300 bywhich the second cable segment 120 can be spliced to the first cablesegment 110 using the example enclosure arrangement 200. It should beappreciated that the operation illustrated in the example of FIG. 7 isprovided for explanatory purposes and is not intended to represent asole way of practicing the techniques of this disclosure. Rather, thetechniques of this disclosure may be practiced in many ways.

In the splicing process 300 of FIG. 7, a technician is initiallyprovided 302 with two cable segments, such as the example first andsecond cable segments 110, 120 described above, and a splice enclosurearrangement, such as the enclosure arrangement 200 shown in FIG. 6. Thetechnician prepares 304 the first cable segment 110 and also prepares306 the second cable segment 120 as will be described in more detailherein. For example, the technician can mount the first and secondenclosure assemblies 210, 220 onto the first ends 111, 121 of the firstand second cable assemblies 110, 120.

The technician splices 308 together the optical fibers 112, 122 of theprepared first and second cable segments 110, 120. For example, in someimplementations, the technician can splice together two ribbonized setsof fibers 112, 122. In certain implementations, the technician mounts asplice sleeve 250 onto one of the cable segments 110, 120 prior tosplicing 308 the fibers. When the fibers 112, 122 have been fusedtogether, the technician positions the splice sleeve 250 over thesplice.

The technician secures 310 the splice enclosure arrangement 200 to thecable 100 at the splice location. For example, the technician connectsthe first and second cable segments 110, 120 to the first and secondcable retention members 230, 240, respectively. The technician alsoattaches the first and second enclosure assemblies 210, 220 to eachother (e.g., see FIG. 8) to enclose and protect the splice location. Thetechnician seals 312 the splice enclosure 200 and the stripped ends ofthe cable segments 110, 120 at the splice location (see FIG. 9). Forexample, in one implementation, the technician can seal the cable 100using a heat-shrink tube 150. In another implementation, the techniciancan overmold the cable 100 at the splice location.

FIG. 10 provides one example first preparation process 320 by which thetechnician can implement preparing 304 the first cable segment 110 forsplicing. FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate the steps of the first preparationprocess 320. In the example first preparation process 320, thetechnician removes 322 the outer jacket 118 to expose the optical fibers112 and the strength members 117. The technician trims 324 the strengthmembers 117 to an appropriate length (see FIG. 11).

The technician positions 326 the first enclosure assembly 210 on thefirst cable segment 110. For example, the technician can slide the firstenclosure body over the first cable segment 110 so that the opticalfibers 112 and trimmed strength members 117 extend through the first end213 of the first enclosure body 211. The first cable retention member230 also can be threaded onto the optical fibers 112 of the first cablesegment 110 (see FIG. 12). In certain implementations, the technicianalso can slide a heat shrink tube 150 over the first cable segment 110to be used subsequently in sealing the splice location.

The technician prepares the optical fibers 112 of the first cablesegment 110 for splicing to the optical fibers 122 of the second cablesegment 120. For example, in one implementation, the technicianribbonizes 350 the fibers, strips 352 off any outer coating, and cuts354 the terminal ends of the optical fibers 112 of the first cablesegment 110. In other implementation, however, the technician mayotherwise prepare the second cable segment 120. For example, in oneimplementation, the fibers 112 can be spliced without being ribbonized.

FIG. 13 provides one example second preparation process 340 by which thetechnician can implement preparing 306 the second cable segment 120 forsplicing. FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate the steps of the second preparationprocess 340. In the example second preparation process 340, thetechnician removes 342 the outer jacket 128 of the second cable segment120 to expose the buffer tube 124 and the strength components 127. Thetechnician also strips 344 the buffer tube 124 to expose the opticalfibers 122. The technician trims 346 the strength components 127 to anappropriate length (see FIG. 14).

The technician positions 348 the second enclosure assembly 220 on thesecond cable segment 120. For example, the technician can slide thesecond enclosure body 221 over the second cable segment 120 so that theoptical fibers 122 and trimmed strength components 127 extend throughthe first end 223 of the second enclosure body 221. The second cableretention member 240 also can be threaded onto the optical fibers 122 ofthe second cable segment 120 (see FIG. 15).

The technician prepares the optical fibers 122 of the second cablesegment 120 for splicing to the optical fibers 112 of the first cablesegment 110. For example, in one implementation, the technicianribbonizes 350 the fibers, strips 352 off any outer coating, and cuts354 the terminal ends of the optical fibers 122 of the second cablesegment 120 to provide a fusion-ready surface. In other implementation,however, the technician may otherwise prepare the second cable segment120. For example, in one implementation, the fibers 112 can be splicedwithout being ribbonized.

Additional details regarding preparation of optical fiber cables forsplicing and splicing techniques can be found in U.S. application Ser.No. 12/548,600, filed Aug. 27, 2009, titled “Splice of Fiber OpticCables,” now published as U.S. Publication No. 2010/0086266, thedisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety.

FIG. 16 provides one example mounting process 360 by which thetechnician can implement securing 310 the enclosure arrangement 200 tothe cable 100 at the splice location. The technician first attaches 362the first cable retention member 230 to the first cable segment 110. Forexample, in one implementation, the technician can crimp the strengthmembers 117 of the first cable segment 110 to the cable retention member230.

FIGS. 17-23 show one example embodiment of a cable retention member 230suitable for use in implementing the attachment step 362 of the mountingprocess 360. In accordance with some aspects, the first cable retentionmember 230 includes a crimp body 231 and a crimp sleeve 239. The crimpbody 231 defines a ribbed or threaded section 235. The crimp sleeve 239mounts over the ribbed section 235 to crimp a portion of the first cablesegment (e.g., the strength members 117) to the first cable retentionmember 230.

The crimp body 231 defines a through-opening 232 extending through thecrimp body 231. The crimp body 231 has a first port 233 at a first endof the crimp body 231 and a second port 234 at a second end of the crimpbody 231 to access the through-opening 232. The first port 233 issufficiently sized to enable the optical fibers 112 and the strengthmembers 117 of the first cable segment 110 to enter the through opening232 of the crimp body 231 (see FIG. 19). The second port 234 is sized toenable only the optical fibers 112 to exit the crimp body 231 (see FIG.20).

The crimp body 231 also defines at least one opening 236 at the firstend of the crimp body 231 and at least one channel 237 extending alongan exterior surface of the crimp body 231. For example, the channel 237can extend axially from the opening 236 along the ribbed section 235 ofthe crimp body 231. In some implementations, one or more channels 237also can extend along the second end of the crimp body 231 to connectpairs of the axial channels 237 (e.g., see FIGS. 17 and 18). In theexample shown, the crimp body 231 defines two openings 236 and fourchannels 237. In other implementations, however, the crimp body 231 candefine greater or fewer openings 236 and/or greater or fewer channels237.

To secure the first cable segment 110 to the first cable retentionmember 230, the technician inserts the optical fibers 112 and thestrength members 117 of the first cable segment 110 into the first port233 of the crimp body 231. The technician threads the optical fibers 112along the through-opening 232 and out the second port 234. Thetechnician also routes the strength members 117 through the openings 236and along the channels 237. The crimp sleeve 239 is slid over the ribbedsection 235 of the crimp body 231 when the strength members 117 arepositioned in the channels 237. The technician uses a tool to applysufficient force to the crimp sleeve 239 to form the crimp.

One example routing path R along which each strength member 117 can berouted is shown in FIG. 22. The example routing path R extends axiallyfrom one of the openings 236, along an exterior surface of the ribbedsection 235 toward the second end of the crimp body 231, over the secondend of the crimp body 231, and axially along the exterior surface of theribbed section 235 toward the first end of the crimp body 231. In someimplementations, the two axial portions of the routing path R arelocated on opposite sides of the crimp body 231. In certainimplementations, each strength member 117 follows its own routing path(e.g., path R1 and path R2 of FIG. 23) without crossing another strengthmember.

Continuing with the example mounting process 360, the technicianattaches 364 the second cable retention member 240 to the second cablesegment 120. For example, in one implementation, the technician can glueor otherwise affix the strength components 127 of the second cablesegment 120 to the second cable retention member 240.

FIGS. 24-29 show one example embodiment of a second cable retentionmember 240 suitable for use in implementing the attachment step 364 ofthe mounting process 360. The example second cable retention member 240includes a body 241 defining a through opening 242 sized and configuredto receive the optical fibers 122 o the second cable segment 120. Insome implementations, the through-opening 242 can have a roundcross-sectional profile. In other implementations, the transversecross-sectional profile of the through-opening 242 can match thetransverse cross-sectional profile of the buffer tube 124 of the secondcable segment 120.

The body 241 of the second cable retention member 240 has a first end243 and a second end 244. The body 241 defines receiving passages 245within which the strength components 127 of the second cable segment 120can be inserted. In some implementations, the receiving passages 245extend along only a portion of the length of the retention body 241(e.g., see FIG. 28). Accordingly, only the first end 243 of theretention body 241 defines a port to each passage 245 (compare FIGS. 26and 27).

In accordance with some aspects, to secure the second cable segment 120to the second cable retention member 240, the technician coats thetrimmed strength components 127 in glue, epoxy, or other adhesive. Thetechnician inserts the coated strength components 127 into the receivingpassages 245 from the first end 243 of the retention body 241. Inaccordance with other aspects, the technician can insert the adhesiveinto the receiving passages 245 instead of, or in addition to, coatingthe strength components 127.

Continuing with the example mounting process 360, the technicianencloses 366 the splice location by securing the first enclosure body211 to the second enclosure body 221 with the first and second cableretention members 230, 240 positioned within the enclosure bodies 211,221 (see FIG. 8). By repositioning the enclosure assemblies 210, 220 inthis manner, substantially all exposed segments of the optical fibers ofthe first cable segment 110 and substantially all exposed segments ofthe optical fibers of the second cable segment 120 may be covered bycable jackets 118, 128 and the enclosure arrangement 200.

In some implementations, the enclosure bodies 211, 221 are securedtogether by threading the bodies 211, 221 together. In certainimplementations, each enclosure body 211, 221 defines at least oneshoulder 217, 227 at the second end 214, 224 to facilitate positioningand movement of the enclosure body 211, 221 (e.g., via a wrench or othertool). Each cable retention member 230, 240 is sized and shaped to fitwithin the hollow interior 212, 222 of the respective enclosure body211, 221 (e.g., see FIG. 6). For example, the first cable retentionmember 230 can be sized and shaped to enter the first enclosure body 211at the first end 213 and to abut the surface at the second end 214 ofthe first enclosure body 211. The second cable retention member 240 canbe sized and shaped to enter the second enclosure body 221 at the firstend 223 and to abut the surface at the second end 224 of the secondenclosure body 221.

The technician also locks 368 the cable retention members 230, 240 atfixed positions within the enclosure bodies 211, 221. For example, inaccordance with some aspects, each retention member 230, 240 can besecured within the respective enclosure body 211, 221 via a set screw219, 229 or other fasteners (FIG. 8). The set screws 219, 229 can beinserted through the enclosure bodies 211, 221 to interact with thecable retention members 230, 240 held within the enclosure bodies 211,221. Locking the cable retention members 230, 240 within the enclosurebodies 211, 221 inhibits force applied to the cable segments 110, 120from translating to the fusion splice.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 12 and 15, the circumferential wall ofeach enclosure body 211, 221 defines an opening 218, 228 through whichthe set screw 219, 229 can be inserted (see FIGS. 12 and 15). In certainimplementations, the openings 218, 228 are defined at the closed ends ofthe bodies 211, 221. In some implementations, each of the retentionmembers 230, 240 defines a reduced diameter section 238, 248 that isconfigured to align with the opening 218, 228 defined in thecorresponding enclosure body 211, 221 when the retention member 230, 240is enclosed within the enclosure body 211, 221. Inserting the set screws219, 229 into the openings 218, 228 causes the set screws 219, 229 toextend into the reduced diameter section 238, 248 to lock the cableretention member 230, 240 at an axially fixed location within theenclosure body 211, 212. In other implementations, the set screws 219,229 can interact with other portions of the retention members 230, 240.

Referring to FIGS. 30-64, another example system and process forsplicing together the first and second cable segments 110, 120 areshown. FIG. 30 shows another example implementation 600 of a spliceenclosure arrangement 140

(FIG. 1) suitable for use in coupling together the first ends 111, 121of the first and second cable segments 110, 120 to form a cable 100. Theexample enclosure arrangement 600 includes an enclosure tube 610 (seeFIGS. 31-33), a first end cap 630 (see FIGS. 34-38) and a second end cap620 (see FIG. 39-43) that are configured to attach together to enclose asplice sleeve 250 at a splice location.

Cable retention members 650, 640 are configured to retain the strengthmembers 117, 127 of the cable segments 110, 120, respectively. The cableretention members 640, 650 are sized and shaped to fit within theenclosure tube 610. In certain implementations, gaskets 660 can bepositioned between the cable retention members 640, 650 and the end caps620, 630 to aid in sealing the interior of the enclosure arrangement 600from dirt, dust, and other contaminants.

In some implementations, a cable strain relief device (e.g., a boot) 670can be mounted to at least the first end cap 630 to protect the firstcable segment 110. The cable strain relief device 670 inhibits bendingof the optical fibers 112 of the first cable segment 110 beyond amaximum bend radius. The cable strain relief device 670 also aids intransferring side loads. In other implementations, a cable strain reliefdevice also can be provided on or mounted to the second end cap 620 toprotect the second cable segment 120.

FIGS. 31-33 show an example enclosure tube 610 having a generallycylindrical body 611 defining a hollow interior 612. A first end of thetube body 611 defines a first connection region 613 and a second end ofthe tube body 611 defines a second connection region 614. In someimplementations, each connection region 613, 614 has a threaded exteriorsurface. In other implementations, however, one or both connectionregions 613, 614 can define a threaded interior surface.

FIGS. 34-38 show an example first end cap 630 having a body 631extending from a first end 633 to a second end 634. The first end capbody 631 defines a through-passage 632 extending between the first andsecond ends 633, 634. In general the through-passage 632 has asufficient diameter to receive and slide along a jacketed portion of thefirst cable segment 110.

The interior surface of the first end cap body 631 defines a threadedregion 635 at the first end 633 (FIG. 36). The threaded region 635 isconfigured to screw onto the first connection region 613 of theenclosure tube 610 to mount the first end cap 630 to the enclosure tube610. Accordingly, the diameter of the first end 633 of the first end capbody 631 is sufficiently large to fit over the first connection region613. In other implementations, however, the first end cap 630 can definea narrower first end having a threaded exterior surface that screws intointerior threading at the second end of the enclosure tube.

The first end cap body 631 also includes a reduced diameter portion 636that extends from the threaded region 635 to the second end 634 of thebody 631. An annular bulge portion 637 extends circumferentially aroundthe reduced diameter portion 636. In one implementation, the bulgedportion 637 defines a flat intermediate portion that tapers radiallyinwardly on each side to the reduced diameter portion 636 (FIGS. 35-36).In certain implementations, a channel or groove 638 extends axiallyalong the exterior of the threaded section 635 of the first end cap body631 (see FIG. 34).

FIGS. 39-43 show an example second end cap 620 having a body 621extending from a first end 623 to a second end 624. The second end capbody 621 defines a through-passage 622 extending between the first andsecond ends 623, 624. In general the through-passage 622 has asufficient diameter to receive and slide along a jacketed portion of thesecond cable segment 120.

The interior surface of the second end cap body 621 defines a threadedregion 625 at the first end 623 (FIG. 41). The threaded region 625 isconfigured to screw onto the second connection region 614 of theenclosure tube 610 to mount the second end cap 620 to the enclosure tube610. Accordingly, the diameter of the first end 623 of the second endcap body 621 is sufficiently large to fit over the second connectionregion 614. In other implementations, however, the second end cap 620can define a narrower first end having a threaded exterior surface thatscrews into interior threading at the first end of the enclosure tube.

The second end 624 of the second end cap body 621 defines a taperedsection 626 that tapers radially inwardly (FIG. 35). In certainimplementations, depressions 627 are provided at spaced intervals alongthe circumference of the second end cap body 621 (see FIG. 39). Thedepressions 627 aid in screwing the second end cap 620 to the enclosuretube 610. In certain implementations, a channel or groove 628 extendsaxially along the non-tapered section of the second end cap body 621(see FIG. 40).

FIGS. 44-49 show one example embodiment of a first cable retentionmember 650 suitable for use in securing the first cable segment 110 tothe splice enclosure arrangement 600. In accordance with some aspects,the first cable retention member 650 includes a crimp body 651 and acrimp sleeve 659 (FIG. 30). The crimp body 651 has a first end 653 and asecond end 654 (see FIGS. 44 and 45). The crimp body 651 defines aribbed or threaded section 655. The crimp sleeve 659 mounts over theribbed section 655 to crimp a portion of the first cable segment (e.g.,the strength members 117) to the first cable retention member 650.

The crimp body 651 defines a through-passage 652 extending through thecrimp body 651. The opening to the through-passage 652 at the first end653 of the crimp body 651 is sufficiently sized to enable the opticalfibers 112 and the strength members 117 of the first cable segment 110to enter the through-passage 652 (see FIG. 44). The opening to thethrough-passage 652 at the second end 654 of the crimp body 651 is sizedto enable only the optical fibers 112 to exit the crimp body 651 (seeFIG. 45).

The crimp body 651 also defines at least one opening 656 at the firstend of the crimp body 651 and at least one channel 657 extending axiallyalong an exterior surface of the crimp body 651. For example, thechannels 657 can extend axially through the ribbed section 655 of thecrimp body 651. In some implementations, the channels 657 also extendalong the second end 654 of the crimp body 651 to connect pairs ofchannels 657 provided on different sides of the crimp body 651 (e.g.,see FIGS. 45 and 47). In the example shown, the crimp body 651 definestwo openings 656 and two channels 657. In other implementations,however, the crimp body 651 can define greater or fewer opening 656and/or channels 657. In one implementation, each opening 656 defines orincludes a slot in the crimp body 651 (e.g., see FIG. 48).

To secure the first cable segment 110 to the first cable retentionmember 650, the technician inserts the optical fibers 112 and thestrength members 117 of the first cable segment 110 into thethrough-passage 652 at the first end 653 of the crimp body 651. Thetechnician threads the optical fibers 112 along the through-opening 652and out the second end 654 of the crimp body 651. The technician routesthe strength members 117 through the openings 656 in the crimp body 651and along the exterior channels 657. The crimp sleeve 659 is slid overthe ribbed section 655 of the crimp body 651 when the strength members117 are positioned in the channels 657. The technician uses a tool toapply sufficient force to the crimp sleeve 659 to form the crimp.

One example routing path R′ along which each strength member 117 can berouted is shown in FIG. 49. The example routing path R′ extends axiallyfrom one of the openings 656, along a grooved exterior surface 657 ofthe ribbed section 655 toward the second end 654 of the crimp body 651,over the second end 654 of the crimp body 651, and axially along thegrooved exterior surface 657 of the ribbed section 655 toward the firstend 653 of the crimp body 651. In some implementations, the two axialportions of the routing path R′ are located on opposite sides of thecrimp body 651 (e.g., see FIG. 48). In certain implementations, eachstrength member 117 follows its own routing path (e.g., path R3 and pathR4 of FIG. 48) without crossing.

FIGS. 50-55 show one example second cable retention member 640 includinga body 641 having a first end 643 and a second end 644. The outerdiameter of the second cable retention member body 641 is substantiallyconstant. The first end 643 of the second retention body 641 includes arim 647 having a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the restof the second retention body 641.

The second retention body 641 defines a through-passage 642 extendingbetween the first and second ends 643, 644. In general thethrough-passage 642 has a sufficient diameter to receive and slide alongthe optical fibers 122 of the second cable segment 120. In certainimplementations, the through-passage 642 has sufficient diameter toreceive and slide along a buffer tube 124 enclosing the optical fibers122. In one implementation, the ports into the through-passage 642 aretapered.

The second retention body 641 also defines receiving passages 645 thatextend into the body 641 from the first end 643. In someimplementations, the receiving passages 645 extend only partiallythrough the body 641. In other implementations, however, the receivingpassages 645 can extend completely through the body 641. The receivingpassages 645 are configured to receive strength components 127 of thesecond cable segment 120.

In certain implementations, the strength components 127 are glued,expoxied, or otherwise affixed within the receiving passages 645. In oneimplementation, the strength components 127 are coated with glue priorto being inserted into the passages 645. In another implementation, glueis inserted into the receiving passages 645 prior to inserting thestrength members 127. In another implementation, glue is applied both tothe strength components 127 and to the receiving passages 645.

FIGS. 56-58 show one example gasket 660 suitable for use in sealing theends of the enclosure tube 610. The example gasket 660 includes a body661 having a first end 663 and a second end 664. The gasket body 661defines a through-passage 662 extending between the first and secondends 663, 664. The through-passage 662 is sized and shaped to enable atleast the optical fibers of the respective cable segment to extendthrough the passage 662. In certain implementations, the through-passage662 is sized and shaped to enable a jacketed portion of the respectivecable segment to extend through.

In certain implementations, each gasket 660 is mounted between one ofthe cable retention members 640, 650 and one of the end caps 620, 630.The gaskets 660 inhibit dust, dirt, or other contaminants from enteringthe enclosure tube 610. The gasket body 661 also includes a sealingridge 666 having a transverse cross-sectional profile with sufficientdiameter to press in sealing engagement against the threaded region ofthe respective end cap 620, 630. When the gasket 660 is mounted to thecable 100, the first end 663 of the gasket body 661 faces and extendsinto the respective end cap 620, 630. Accordingly, the first end 663 ofthe gasket body 661 tapers radially inwardly so that the first end 663has a transverse cross-sectional profile that will fit within therespective end caps 620, 630.

When the gasket 660 is mounted to the cable 100, the second end 664 ofthe gasket body 661 is configured to face toward the enclosure tube 610.In certain implementations, the second end 664 of the gasket body 661engages the respective cable retention element 640, 650. In the exampleshown, the cross-sectional profile of the second end 664 of the gasketbody 661 is larger than the cross-sectional profile of the first end663.

In some implementations, the same type of gasket 660 is used at bothends of the enclosure tube 610. In other implementations, however,different types of gaskets can be used. For example, in oneimplementation, the through-passage 662 of each gasket 660 can be sizedand shaped to match the transverse cross-sectional profile of the cablesegment over which the gasket 660 is mounted.

FIGS. 59-63 show one example strain relief device 670 suitable forproviding strain relief to at least the first cable segment 110. Thestrain relief device 670 includes a body 671 having a first end 673 anda second end 674. A through-passage 672 extends through the body 671between the first and second ends 673, 674. The second end 674 of thebody 671 is sized and shaped to enable a jacketed portion of the firstcable segment 110 to extend therethrough. In one implementation, thesecond end 674 can have a transverse cross-sectional profile thatmatches a transverse cross-sectional profile of the first cable segment110.

The first end 673 of the strain relief body 671 includes a mountingsection 675 that is configured to mount to the first end cap 630 of theenclosure arrangement 600. For example, the mounting section 675 candefine an annular groove 677 along an interior surface of the body 671.The mounting section 675 also can define a lip 677 that is sufficientlyflexible to enable a portion of the first end cap 630 to push past thelip 677 to the groove 677. For example, in one implementation, thebulged portion 637 of the first end cap 630 can snap-fit into theannular groove 677 of the strain relief body 671 to mount the strainrelief device 670 to the first end cap 630. The second end 674 of thestrain relief body 671 provides a boot section 676 that inhibits bendingof the first cable segment 110 beyond a maximum bend radius.

In accordance with some aspects, the splicing process 300 shown in FIG.7 can be implemented using the enclosure arrangement 600. For example, atechnician is initially provided 302 with a first cable segment 110, asecond cable segment 120, and the enclosure arrangement 600. Thetechnician prepares 304 the first cable segment 110 and prepares 306 thesecond cable segment 120. For example, the technician can prepare thecable segments 110, 120 as discussed above.

At the end of the preparation steps, the first end 111 of the firstcable segment 110 will have the strain relief device 670, the first endcap 630, a gasket 660, the first cable retention member 650, and theenclosure tube 610 threaded onto the optical fibers 112/strength members117 as appropriate. The first end 121 of the second cable segment 120will have the second end cap 620, a gasket 660, and the second cableretention member 640 threaded onto the optical fibers 122/strengthcomponents 127 as appropriate.

The technician splices 308 the optical fibers 112 of the first cablesegment 110 to the optical fibers 122 of the second cable segment 120,e.g., as discussed above. The technician then secures 310 the splicedfibers within the splice enclosure arrangement 600 and seals 312 thesplice enclosure arrangement 600. For example, the technician can attachthe strength members 117 of the first cable segment 110 to the firstcable retention member 650 and attach the strength components 127 of thesecond cable segment 120 to the second cable retention member 640. Thetechnician also can position the enclosure tube 610 over the splicedfibers.

As shown in FIG. 64, the enclosure tube 610 defines a first innershoulder 615 and a second inner shoulder 616. When the techniciansecures the splice, the first cable retention member 650 is pushedwithin the enclosure tube 610 until the second end 654 of the cableretention member abuts the first inner shoulder 615 of the enclosuretube 610. The first end cap 630 threads onto the first connection region613 of the enclosure tube 610 to hold the first cable retention member650 in an axially fixed position relative to the enclosure tube 610.

The second cable retention member 640 is pushed into the enclosure tube610 until the rim 647 at the first end 643 of the second cable retentionmember 640 abuts the second inner shoulder 616. The second end cap 640threads onto the second connection region 614 of the enclosure tube 610to hold the second cable retention member 640 in an axially fixedposition relative to the enclosure tube 610. The gaskets 660 providesealing protection for the bare optical fibers 112, 122 at the splicelocation. Accordingly, in certain implementations, neither a heat shrinktube nor an overmolding enclosure is applied to the cable 100.

Referring to FIGS. 65-120, another example system and process forsplicing together the first and second cable segments 110, 120 areshown. FIG. 65 shows another example implementation 700 of a spliceenclosure arrangement 140 (FIG. 1) suitable for use in coupling togetherthe first ends 111, 121 of the first and second cable segments 110, 120to form a cable 100. In the example shown, the splice enclosurearrangement 700 covers a splice location at which at least a firstoptical fiber 112 of a first example cable 110 is optically coupled toat least a second optical fiber 122 of a second example cable 120.

The example enclosure arrangement 700 includes an enclosure tube 710(see FIGS. 66-67), a first end cap 760 (see FIGS. 68-74) and a secondend cap 790 (see FIG. 75-81) that are configured to attach together toenclose a splice sleeve 705 positioned at the splice location. A cableretention member 720 (FIGS. 84-88) is configured to retain the strengthmembers 117, 127 of each cable segments 110, 120. The cable retentionmember 720 is sized and shaped to fit within ends the enclosure tube710. A lock member (FIGS. 90-92)) 730 fits over the cable retentionmember 720 to secure the cable retention member 720 within the tube 710.For example, the lock member 730 may rotationally lock the cableretention member 720, and hence the cable 110, 120 within the tube 710.

In certain implementations, gaskets 740, 740′ (FIGS. 93-100) andstabilizers 750, 780 (FIGS. 101-112) can be positioned between the lockmembers 730 and the end caps 760, 790, respectively to aid in sealing aninterior of the enclosure arrangement 700 from dirt, dust, and othercontaminants. In some implementations, a cable strain relief device(e.g., a boot) 770 (FIGS. 113-117) can be mounted to at least the secondend cap 780 to protect the first cable segment 110. The cable strainrelief device 790 inhibits bending of the optical fibers 112 of thefirst cable segment 110 beyond a maximum bend radius. The cable strainrelief device 770 also aids in transferring side loads. In otherimplementations, a cable strain relief device 790 also can be providedon or mounted to the first end cap 770 to protect the second cablesegment 120.

FIGS. 66-67 show an example enclosure tube 710 having a generallycylindrical body 711 defining a hollow interior 712. A first end of thetube body 711 defines a first connection region 713 and a second end ofthe tube body 711 defines a second connection region 714. In someimplementations, each connection region 713, 714 has a threaded exteriorsurface. In other implementations, however, one or both connectionregions 713, 714 can define a threaded interior surface. In still otherimplementations, the connection regions 713, 714 are otherwise shapedand sized to facilitate connection of the tube 710 to the end caps 760,790.

The tube 710 has a length L3. In some implementations, the length L3 ofthe tube 710 is within a range of about four inches to about ten inches.Indeed, in some implementations, the length L3 of the tube 710 is withina range of about five inches to about eight inches. In certainimplementations, the length L3 of the tube 710 is within a range ofabout six inches to about seven inches. In one example implementations,the length L3 of the tube 710 is about six inches.

FIGS. 68-74 show an example first end cap 760 includes a first section761 and a second section 762 defining a through-passage 763 that extendsbetween two open ends. The first section has an external diameter D1that is larger than an external diameter D2 of the second section 762.The internal diameter of the end cap 760 varies along a longitudinalaxis A_(L) of the end cap 760. However, each section of thethrough-passage 732 has a sufficient diameter to receive and slide alonga jacketed portion of the first cable segment 110.

The interior surface of the first section 761 defines a threaded region764. The threaded region 764 is configured to screw onto the firstconnection region 713 of the enclosure tube 710 to mount the first endcap 760 to the enclosure tube 710. Accordingly, the diameter of thefirst section 761 of the first end cap 760 is sufficiently large to fitover the first connection region 713 of the tube 710. In otherimplementations, however, the first section 716 of the end cap 760 candefine a narrower end having a threaded exterior surface that screwsinto interior threading at the first end of the enclosure tube.

In some implementations, the first section 761 defines one or more firstthrough-holes 765 extending radially through the first section 761. Thefirst through-holes 765 are configured to facilitate threading the firstend cap 760 onto the first connection region 713 of the tube 710. Forexample, the first through-holes 765 may be sized and shaped to allowthe end cap 760 to be installed using a torque wrench. In the exampleshown, the first section 761 defines two first through-holes 765positioned across from each other at a generally intermediate portion ofthe end cap 760 (see FIGS. 70 and 74).

In some implementations, the first section 761 defines one or moresecond through-holes 766 extending radially through the first section761. In the example shown, the first section 761 includes a singlesecond through-hole 766 (see FIG. 72). The second through-hole 766 isconfigured to facilitate the insertion of epoxy between the threadedregion 764 of the first end cap 760 and the connection region 713 of thetube 710. Application of the epoxy may aid in retaining the first endcap 760 on the first connection region 713 despite vibration, pulling,or other mechanical stress applied to the splice enclosure 700.

The first end cap 760 also includes an annular bulge portion extendingcircumferentially around an intermediate portion of the second section762. The bulged portion aids in retaining the strain relief device 770to the first end cap 760. The bulged portion defines a first surface 767that tapers radially outwardly from the second section 762, a secondsurface 768 that extends generally parallel with the second section 762,and a third surface 769 that tapers radially inwardly to the secondsection 762 (FIGS. 72-73). The flat second surface 768 is locatedbetween the two tapered surfaces 767, 769.

FIGS. 75-81 show an example second end cap 790 including a first section791 and a second section 792 that define a through-passage 793 extendingfrom an open first end 797 to an open second end 798. The second section792 defines a frustro-conical surface that tapers radially inwardly fromthe first section 791. The internal diameter of the end cap 790 variesalong a longitudinal axis A_(L2) of the end cap 790. However, eachsection of the through-passage 793 has a sufficient diameter to receiveand slide along a jacketed portion of the second cable segment 120.

The first section 791 defines a generally flat exterior surface and athreaded interior surface 794 (FIG. 75). The threaded surface 794 isconfigured to screw onto the second connection region 714 of theenclosure tube 710 to mount the second end cap 790 to the enclosure tube710. Accordingly, the diameter of the first end 797 of the second endcap 790 is sufficiently large to fit over the second connection region714. In other implementations, however, the second end cap 790 candefine a narrower first end 797 having a threaded exterior surface thatscrews into interior threading at the first end of the enclosure tube.

In some implementations, the first section 791 defines one or more firstthrough-holes 795 extending radially through the first section 791. Thefirst through-holes 795 are configured to facilitate threading thesecond end cap 790 onto the second connection region 714 of the tube710. For example, the first through-holes 795 may be sized and shaped toallow the second end cap 790 to be installed using a torque wrench. Inthe example shown, the first section 791 defines two first through-holes795 positioned across from each other at a generally intermediateportion of the end cap 790 (see FIGS. 76, 78, and 81).

In some implementations, the first section 791 defines one or moresecond through-holes 796 extending radially through the first section791. In the example shown, the first section 791 includes a singlesecond through-hole 796 (see FIG. 79). The second through-hole 796 isconfigured to facilitate the insertion of epoxy between the threadedregion 794 of the second end cap 790 and the connection region 714 ofthe tube 710. Application of the epoxy may aid in retaining the firstend cap 790 on the first connection region 714 despite vibration,pulling, or other mechanical stress applied to the splice enclosure 700.

FIGS. 82-86 show one example implementation of a cable retention member720 suitable for use in securing the first cable segment 110 and/or thesecond cable segment 120 to the tube 710 of the splice enclosurearrangement 700. A first cable retention member 720 secures the firstcable segment 110 to the tube 710 and a second cable retention member720 secures the second cable segment 120 to the tube 710. In accordancewith some aspects, the first retention member 720 may be identical tothe second retention member 720. In other implementations, the internaldimensions and/or internal shape of the first and second cable retentionmembers may differ based on the dimensions and shapes of the cablesegments 110, 120.

In accordance with some aspects, the cable retention member 720 includesa body 721 having opposing first sides 722 interconnected by opposingsecond sides 723. In the example shown, the first sides 722 defineplanar external surfaces and the second sides 723 define convexly curvedexternal surfaces. In another implementation, the sides 722, 723 defineexternal surfaces of the same shape (e.g., both flat, both rounded,etc.). In other implementations, however, the first and second sides maydefine other types of surface.

The first and second sides 722, 723 extend between first and second openends 725, 726 to define a through-passage 724. The first open end 725 ofthe retention body 721 is sized and shaped to receive at least oneoptical fiber 112, 122 and at least one strength member 117, 127 of oneof the cables 110, 120. In some implementations, the first open end 725defines an oblong shape. In other implementations, the first end 725 maybe circular, elliptical, obround, or any other desired shape.

The second open end 726 is smaller than the first open end 725. Thesecond open end 726 is sized and shaped to enable passage of at leastone optical fiber 112, 122 therethrough. In certain implementations, thesecond open end 726 is sized and shaped to enable passage of a buffertube surrounding the at least one optical fiber, such as buffer tube 124of cable segment 120. In the sample shown, the second end 726 iscircular. In other implementations, the first end 725 may be elliptical,oblong, obround, or any other desired shape.

The strength members 117, 127 of the cable segments 110, 120 extendthrough the passage 724 from the first open end 725 toward the secondopen end 726. The cable retention body 721 defines an internal shoulder727 that aid in defining the second open end 726. The internal shoulders727 inhibit passage of the strength members 117, 127 through the secondend 726 of the retention body 721. For example, the strength members117, 127 may abut the internal shoulders 727.

In certain implementations, the strength members 117, 127 may be affixedwithin the retention member 720 using epoxy or other adhesive. In someimplementations, the optical fiber 122 inserted through the retentionmember 720 is surrounded by a buffer tube 124. In some suchimplementations, the buffer tube 124 completely through the passage 724so that a length of the buffer tube 124 extends past the second end 726.The buffer tube 124 protects the at least one optical fiber 122 frombeing coated in the epoxy or other adhesive.

In some implementations, the strength members 117, 127 include strengthmember fibers that have a coating that does not bond well withadhesives. In some such implementations, the strength member fibers maybe oxidized prior to being coated with adhesive and inserted into theretention member 720. The oxidation removes a binder from the strengthmember fibers, which enhances the ability of the adhesive to bond to thestrength member fibers.

The retention member body 721 includes side projections 728 extendinglaterally outwardly from the first end 725 of the body 721. The sideprojections 728 have a curvature that matches the curvature of thesecond sides 723 of the retention member body 721 (see FIGS. 82, 83, and85). In the example shown, the side projections 728 are flush with thefirst end 725 of the retention body 721 (see FIG. 82). The sideprojections 728 define abutting surfaces 729 facing toward the secondend 726 of the retention member body 721 (see FIGS. 83 and 86).

FIGS. 87-89 illustrate how the example retention member 720 secures acable segment 110, 120 to the tube 710. In some implementations, aretention member 720 secures one cable segment 110 to one end of thetube 710 and the other cable segment 120 to the other end of the tube710. In certain implementations, an example retention member 720 isconfigured to move axially through the tube 710 when positioned in apass-through orientation and is configured to secure to an end of thetube 710 when positioned in a locking orientation. In certainimplementations, the locking orientation is rotated about 90° relativeto the pass-through orientation.

The tube 710 may be mounted to one of the cable segments 110, 120 priorto splicing together the optical fibers 112, 122 and subsequently slidover the splice. Before splicing together the fibers, each retentionmember 720 is secured to the respective cable segment 110, 120. Toposition the tube 710 over the splice location, one of the retentionmembers 720 is positioned in a pass-through orientation relative to thetube 710 and slid through the tube 710. When the tube 710 is positionedaround the splice location, the retention members 720 are positioned inthe locking orientation on opposite sides of the tube 710.

FIG. 87 shows an end view of the enclosure tube 710. The internal sides719 of the tube 710 have a sufficient diameter to accommodate theprojections 728 of the retention member 720. At least a first raisedtrack 715 extends longitudinally along an internal surface 719 of thetube 710. The track 715 protrudes radially inwardly into thethrough-passage 712 from the internal surface 719. In the example shown,first and second raised tracks 715 extend along opposing sides of thethrough-passage 712. The gap between the first and second tracks 715 isnot sufficient to accommodate the projections 728 of the retentionmember 720.

In certain implementations, the sides of each track 715 extend farthertoward the ends of the tube 710 than an intermediate portion of thetrack 715, thereby forming shoulders 716 bounding a ledge 717 (see FIGS.87-88). The engagement between the side projections 728 of the retentionmembers 720 and the ledges 717 of the tracks 715 inhibit movement of thecable retention member 720 farther into the tube 710. The shoulders 716of the tracks 715 retain the side projections 728 in alignment with theledges 717. For example, the shoulders 716 inhibit rotation of theretention member 720 out of alignment with the tracks 715.

In some implementations, the tracks 715 extend less than completelythough the passage 712. For example, in some implementations, the tracks715 terminate along the internal surface of the connecting regions 713,714 of the tube 710. In other implementations, however, the tracks 715may terminate prior to reaching the connecting regions 713, 714. In oneimplementation, the sides of each track 715 taper toward the internalsurface 719 of the tube 710.

Accordingly, a retention member 720 may be slid completely through thetube 710 from one end to another when the retention member 720 ispositioned in the pass-through orientation (i.e., when the projections728 are oriented out of alignment with the ledges 717). The retentionmember 720 may not be slid completely through the tube 710 from one endto another when the retention member 720 is positioned in the lockingorientation. When the retention member 720 is positioned in the lockingorientation (see FIG. 89), the side projections 728 of the retentionmember body 721 are sized and shaped to abut the tracks 715.

For example, as shown in FIG. 89, the retention member body 721 ispositioned in the tube 710 so that the side projections 728 of the body721 fit on the ledges 717 between the shoulders 716 of the tracks 715.The abutting surface 729 of each side projection 728 of the retentionmember 720 seats on the ledge 717 of one of the tracks 715 of the tube710. Accordingly, the tracks 715 inhibit axial movement of the retentionmember body 721 through the tube 710 when the retention member 720 ispositioned in a locking orientation. The shoulders 716 inhibit rotationof the retention member 720 from the locking orientation to thepass-through orientation.

In the example shown in FIG. 89, an example cable retention member 720is positioned in a locking orientation relative to the enclosure tube710 to secure the first cable segment 110 to the first end 713 of theenclosure tube 710. The strength members 117 and optical fibers 112extend into the retention member body 721 through the first end 725 ofthe retention member body 721. The strength members 117 extend towardthe internal shoulders 727 of the retention member body 721 and theoptical fibers 112 extend through the second end 726 of the body 721.

FIGS. 90-92 illustrate a lock member 730 that is configured to aid insecuring the cable retention member 720 within the tube 710. In someimplementations, the lock member 730 is configured to cooperate with theshoulders 716 of the tube 710 to inhibit rotation of the retentionmember 720 relative to the tube 710 from the locking orientation to thepass-through orientation. In certain implementations, the lock member730 is configured to aid in inhibiting axial movement of the cableretention member 720 relative to the tube 710. For example, the lockmember 730 may cooperate with the respective end cap 760, 790 and othercomponents to inhibit axial movement of the retention member 720.Accordingly, the lock member 730 inhibits the retention member 720 fromovercoming the shoulders 716 defined by the tracks 715 to rotate fromthe locking orientation to the pass-through orientation.

The lock member 730 includes prongs 733 extending from a base 721. Theprongs 733 are sized and shaped to extend over sides 722 of the cableretention member 720 and to fill the gaps between the cable retentionmember 720 and the internal surface 719 of the tube 710. Each prong 733has an inner surface 734, an outer surface 735, and two side surfaces736. The inner surfaces 734 of the prongs 733 are sized and shapedcomplementary to the first sides 722 of the retention member 720. Forexample, in certain implementations, the inner surfaces 734 of opposingprongs 733 are flat and spaced at an appropriate distance apart toenable the inner surfaces 734 to slide over the flat first sides 722 ofthe retention members 721.

The outer surfaces 735 are sized and shaped complementary to theinternal surface 719 of the tube 710. For example, the outer surfaces735 may be curved to match the curved internal surface 719 of the tube710. The side surfaces 736 of the prongs 733 extend between the innerand outer surfaces 734, 735 and are shaped to facilitate insertion ofthe prongs 733 into the ends of the tube 710 around the retention member720. In some implementations, the side surfaces 736 are sized and shapedto avoid interference with the tracks. Indeed, in some implementations,the side surfaces 736 of the prongs 733 are shaped complementary to thelateral sides of the tracks 715. In other implementations, the sidesurfaces 736 do not touch the tracks 715 when the lock 730 is mountedover the retention member 720.

The base 731 of the lock 730 defines an opening 732 that is sized to fitbetween the prongs 733. The opening 732 also is sized to enable thecable segments 110, 120 to pass through the opening 732. For example,the opening 732 is sufficiently large to enable jacketed portions of thecable segments 110, 120 to pass therethrough. In the example shown, theopening 732 is obround. In other implementations, however, the opening732 may be circular, elliptical, oblong, square, or any other desiredshape. In some implementations, the lock 730 used for the first cablesegment 110 has the same shaped opening as the lock 730 used for thesecond cable segment 120. In other implementations, however, theopenings 732 of the locks 730 can vary to match the shape of the cablesegment being secured.

FIGS. 93-100 show example gaskets suitable for use in sealing the endsof the enclosure tube 710. The gaskets inhibit dust, dirt, or othercontaminants from entering the enclosure tube 710. In someimplementations, the same type of gasket is used at both ends of theenclosure tube 710. In other implementations, however, different typesof gaskets can be used. For example, in one implementation, athrough-passage of each gasket can be sized and shaped to match thetransverse cross-sectional profile of the cable segment over which thegasket is mounted.

In certain implementations, each gasket is mounted between one of thecable retention members 720 and one of the end caps 760, 790. Indeed, incertain implementations, each gasket is mounted between one of the lockmembers 730 and a stabilizer 750, 780, respectively. In accordance withsome aspects, each gasket is axially compressed between the tube 710 andthe respective stabilizer 750, 780 to inhibit ingress of contaminantsinto the tube 710. In accordance with other aspects, each gasket isradially compressed between the respective stabilizer 750, 780 and therespective cable segment 110, 120 to inhibit ingress of contaminantsinto the tube 710.

FIGS. 93-96 show a first example gasket 740 configured to seal one endof the tube 710 while enabling the first cable segment 110 to extendinto the tube 710. FIGS. 97-100 show a second example gasket 740′configured to seal the other end of the tube 710 while enabling thesecond cable segment 120 to extend into the tube 710. Each examplegasket 740, 740′ includes a gasket body 741 having a first end 743 and asecond end 744. In the example shown, the cross-sectional profile of thesecond end 744 of the gasket body 741 is larger than the cross-sectionalprofile of the first end 743.

The gasket body 741 of each gasket 740, 740′ defines a through-passage742, 742′, respectively, extending between the first and second ends743, 744. The through-passages 742, 742′ are sized and shaped to enableat least the optical fibers of the respective cable segment 110, 120 toextend through the passage 742, 742′, respectively. In certainimplementations, the through-passages 742, 742′ are sized and shaped toenable a jacketed portion of the respective cable segments 110, 120 toextend through the passages 742, 742′. When the gaskets 740, 740′ aremounted to the cable segments 110, 120, the first end 743 of each gasketbody 741 is configured to face toward the enclosure tube 710.

The gasket body 741 includes a sealing ridge 746 having a transversecross-sectional profile with sufficient diameter to abut the ends of thetube 710 when the first end 743 of the gasket body 741 extends into thetube 710. In certain implementations, the first end 743 of each gasketbody 741 abuts the respective lock member 730 or retention member 720.The exterior surface 748 of the gasket body 741 tapers radially inwardlyfrom the sealing ridge 746 to the second end 744.

Stabilizers 740, 760 mount to respective cable segments 110, 120 and fitwithin respective end cap 760, 790. FIGS. 101-106 show a first exampleimplementation of a stabilizer 750 suitable for use with the first cablesegment 110. FIGS. 107-112 show a second example implementation of astabilizer 780 suitable for use with the second cable segment 120. Thestabilizers 750, 780 are configured to compress the gaskets 740, 740′between the respective ends of the enclosure tube 710 and the respectivestabilizers 750, 780 when the end caps 760, 790 are mounted to the tube710 to enhance sealing of the tube 710. In certain implementations, thesealing ridge 746 of the gasket body 741 defines an abutment surface 747that is sized and shaped to interface with a first end of the respectivestabilizer.

In accordance with certain aspects, the sealing ridge 746 of each gasketbody 741 is axially compressed between the respective end of the tube710 and the respective stabilizer 750, 780 when the respective end cap760, 790 is mounted to the respective end of the tube 710. The axialcompression of the sealing ridge 746 inhibits the ingress ofcontaminants into the tube 710 through the connection between the tubeand the respective end cap or through the connection between therespective end cap and the respective stabilizer.

In certain implementations, the gasket body 741 of each gasket 740, 740′tapers to a second end 744 having a transverse cross-sectional profilethat is sufficiently small to fit within the respective stabilizer 750,780. Each stabilizer 750, 780 is configured to radially compress thetapered surface of the respective gasket body 741 to seal the gasketbody 741 to the respective cable segment 110, 120. For example, thefirst stabilizer 750 is configured to compress the tapered portion ofthe first gasket 740 against the first cable segment 110 to inhibitingress of contaminants into the first end of the tube 710. The secondstabilizer 780 is configured to compress the tapered portion of thesecond gasket 740′ against the second cable segment 120 to inhibitingress of contaminants into the second end of the tube 710.

The first example stabilizer 750 (FIGS. 101-106) has an annular body 751that defines a through passage 752 extending from a first end 753 to asecond end 754. The through-passage 752 is sized and shaped to allow thecable segment 110 to pass therethrough. The second end 754 of the firststabilizer 750 is configured to be received in the first end cap 760. Insome implementations, a shroud 755 extends from the second end 754 ofthe annular body 751. In certain implementations, the shroud 755includes prongs 756 that inhibit bending of the cable adjacent thestabilizer 750. In the example shown, the shroud 755 includes two prongs756 defining opposing flat surfaces 757 between which the first cablesegment 110 extends. The prongs 756 of the first stabilizer 750 aresized and shaped to fit within an interior of the first end cap 760.

The annular body 751 defines an interior surface 758 that is configured(e.g., sized and shaped) to mount over the tapered portion of the gasketbody 741. In some implementations, shoulders 759 protrude inwardly fromthe interior surface 758 of the annular body 751. For example, opposingshoulders 759 may protrude inwardly to define the through-passage 752.When the stabilizer 750 is mounted over the first gasket 740, the secondend 744 of the gasket body 741 abuts against the shoulders 759, theabutment surface 747 of the gasket body 741 abuts against the front end753 of the annular body 751, and the exterior surface 748 of the gasketbody 741 compresses against the interior surface 758 of the annular body751.

The second example stabilizer 780 (FIGS. 107-112) has an annular body781 that defines a through passage 782 extending from a first end 783 toa second end 784. The through-passage 782 is sized and shaped to allowthe second cable segment 120 to pass therethrough. In certainimplementations, the through-passage 782 of the second stabilizer 780 issubstantially the same size and shape as the through-passage 752 of thefirst stabilizer 750. In other implementations, the through-passage 782has a different size and/or a different shape than the through-passage752. For example, in one implementation, the through-passage 782 isoblong and the through passage 752 is more rectangular.

The second end 784 of the second stabilizer 780 is configured to bereceived in the second end cap 790. In some implementations, a shroud785 extends from the second end 784 of the annular body 781. In certainimplementations, the shroud 785 includes prongs 786. The prongs 786 ofthe second stabilizer 780 are sized and shaped to fit within an interiorof the second end cap 790. In the example shown, the shroud 785 includestwo prongs 786 defining opposing flat surfaces 787 between which thesecond cable segment 120 extends. In certain implementations, the prongs786 of the second stabilizer 780 are shorter than the prongs 756 of thefirst stabilizer 755. In other implementations, the shroud 785 fullysurrounds the second cable 120. In still other implementations, secondstabilizer 780 does not have a shroud 785.

The annular body 781 defines an interior surface 788 that is configured(e.g., sized and shaped) to mount over the tapered portion of the gasketbody 741. In some implementations, shoulders 789 protrude inwardly fromthe interior surface 788 of the annular body 781. For example, opposingshoulders 789 may protrude inwardly to define the through-passage 782.When the second stabilizer 780 is mounted over the second gasket 740′,the second end 744 of the gasket body 741 abuts against the shoulders789, the abutment surface 747 of the gasket body 741 abuts against thefirst end 783 of the annular body 781, and the exterior surface 748 ofthe gasket body 741 compresses against the interior surface 788 of theannular body 781.

FIGS. 113-117 show one example strain relief device 770 suitable forproviding strain relief to at least the first cable segment 110. Thestrain relief device 770 includes a body 771 having a first end 773 anda second end 774. A through-passage 772 extends through the body 771between the first and second ends 773, 774. The first end 773 of thestrain relief body 771 includes a mounting section 775 that isconfigured to mount to the second section 762 of the first end cap 760.The second end 774 of the strain relief body 771 provides a boot section776 that inhibits bending of the first cable segment 110 beyond amaximum bend radius.

In some implementations, the mounting section 775 can define an annulargroove 777 along an interior surface of the body 771. The mountingsection 775 also can define a lip 778 that is sufficiently flexible toenable the bulged portion of the first end cap 760 to push past the lip778 to the groove 777. For example, in one implementation, the lip 778of the strain relief mounting section 775 camps over the third surface769 of the bulged portion, over the second surface 768, and down thefirst surface 767 so that the second surface 768 of the bulged portionseats in the groove 777 of the mounting section 775.

The boot section 776 of the strain-relief body 771 is sized and shapedto enable a jacketed portion of the first cable segment 110 to extendtherethrough while inhibiting passage of the first end cap 760therethrough. In one implementation, the second end 774 of thestrain-relief device 770 can have a transverse cross-sectional profilethat matches a transverse cross-sectional profile of the first cablesegment 110.

In accordance with some aspects, the splicing process 300 shown in FIG.7 can be implemented using the enclosure arrangement 700. For example, atechnician is initially provided 302 with a first cable segment 110, asecond cable segment 120, and the enclosure arrangement 700. Thetechnician prepares 304 the first cable segment 110 and prepares 306 thesecond cable segment 120. For example, the technician can prepare thecable segments 110, 120 as discussed above.

At the end of the preparation steps, the first end 111 of the firstcable segment 110 will have at least the strain relief device 770, thefirst end cap 760, a first stabilizer 750, a first gasket 740, a lock730, and a cable retention member 720 threaded onto the optical fibers112/strength members 117 as appropriate. In certain implementations, thefirst cable segment 110 also will have the enclosure tube 710 threadedonto the optical fibers 112/strength members 117 as well. The first end121 of the second cable segment 120 will have the second end cap 790, asecond stabilizer 780, a second gasket 740′, another lock 730, andanother cable retention member 720 threaded onto the optical fibers122/strength components 127 as appropriate. In certain implementations,the second cable segment 120 also will have the enclosure tube 710threaded onto the optical fibers 122/strength members 127 as well.

The technician splices 308 the optical fibers 112 of the first cablesegment 110 to the optical fibers 122 of the second cable segment 120,e.g., as discussed above. The technician then secures 310 the splicedfibers within the splice enclosure arrangement 700 and seals 312 thesplice enclosure arrangement 700. For example, the technician can attach(e.g., insert and glue) the strength members 117, 127 of each cablesegment 110, 120 to one of the cable retention member 720. Thetechnician also can position the enclosure tube 710 over the splicedfibers by sliding the enclosure tube 710 over a closest one of the cableretention members 720.

The technician then rotates the enclosure tube 710 and inserts the cableretention members 720 between the shoulders 716 of the tube 710 to seatagainst the respective ledges 717 on each side. To allow the retentionmembers 720 to be inserted into opposite ends of the tube after thefibers 112, 122 are spliced, excess fiber length is provided within thetube 710 between the two retention members 720 after the retentionmembers 720 have been mounted within the ends of the tube 710. In otherwords, the length of fiber extending between the retention members 720is longer than the enclosure tube 710. The enclosure tube 710 is sizedto accommodate the excess fiber length. The technician slides the locks730 into place against the retention members 720 to axially androtationally secure the retention members 720 within the tube 710.

The technician slides the gaskets 740, 740′ against the respective locks730, slides the first and second stabilizers 750, 780 over therespective gaskets 740, 740′, and slides the end caps 760, 790 over therespective stabilizers 750, 780. The first end cap 760 threads onto thefirst connection region 713 of the enclosure tube 710 to hold the firstcable retention member 720, first lock 730, first gasket 740, and firststabilizer 750 in an axially fixed position relative to the enclosuretube 710. In one implementation, the strain-relief device 770 is mountedto the end cap 760 before the end cap 760 is mounted to the tube 710. Inanother implementation, the strain-relief device 770 is mounted to theend cap 760 after the end cap 760 is mounted to the tube 710. The secondend cap 790 threads onto the second connection region 714 of theenclosure tube 710 to hold the second cable retention member 720, secondlock 730, second gasket 740′, and second stabilizer 780 in an axiallyfixed position relative to the enclosure tube 710.

FIGS. 118 and 119 show the cable 100 having a splice location over whichthe splice enclosure 700 is mounted. For clarity, in FIGS. 118 and 119,the splice enclosure 700 is shown in cross-section and the cable 100 isshown schematically. FIG. 120 shows a perspective view of a cable 100with the splice enclosure 700 mounted over the splice locationconnecting the first cable segment 110 to the second cable segment 120.The gaskets 740, 740′ provide sealing protection for the bare opticalfibers 112, 122 within the tube 710 at the splice location. Accordingly,in certain implementations, neither a heat shrink tube nor anovermolding enclosure is applied to the cable 100. In the example shownin FIG. 120, the second cable segment 120 is a tether terminated by aplug-type connector (e.g., see connector 500 of FIG. 5A).

In accordance with some aspects, multiple splices can be provided on acable. For example, in some implementations, tethers can be spliced toopposite ends of an intermediate cable. In some implementations, thetethers have different cable configurations from the intermediate cable.In other implementations, one or both of the tethers may have the sameconfiguration as the intermediate cable. In still other implementations,multiple lengths of unconnectorized cables may be spliced together. Anyof the above described splices can be protected using any of the spliceenclosures described herein. For example, each splice may be protectedusing the splice enclosure 700 (FIGS. 65-118).

FIG. 121 shows an example cable 800 having a first tether 820 spliced(see 825) to a first end 812 of an intermediate cable 810 and a secondtether 830 spliced (see 835) to a second end 814 of the intermediatecable 810. The splice enclosure 700 is mounted over each splice location825, 835. In the example shown, the intermediate cable 810 is formed andconfigured like the first cable segment 110 disclosed herein and eachtether 820, 830 is formed and configured like the second cable segment120. Accordingly, the side of each enclosure tube 710 facing theintermediate cable 810 attaches to a first end cap 760 and strain-reliefdevice 770. The side of each enclosure tube 710 facing the respectivetether 820, 830 attaches to a second end cap 790.

In some implementations, distal ends of the tethers 820, 830 areconnectorized. In one implementation, the first tether 820 is terminatedat a ruggedized jack 828 (e.g., see receptacle 500′ of FIG. 5B) and thesecond tether 830 is terminated at a ruggedized plug connector 838(e.g., see plug 500 of FIG. 5A). In other implementations, each tether820, 830 may be terminated with the same type of connector or plug. Inother implementations, one or both tethers 820, 830 may includeseparately terminated optical fibers (e.g., with LC connectors, SCconnectors, FC connectors, ST connectors, LX.5 connectors, etc.). Instill other implementations, the distal ends of the tethers 820, 830 maybe unconnectorized.

In accordance with some aspects, a variation of the splice enclosure 700may be used to splice together cable segments having the sameconfigurations. FIG. 122 shows one example cable 900 using analternative splice enclosure 700′ to optically couple two cable segments910, 920 that are both configured like the second cable segment 120. Forexample, each of the cable segments 910, 920 includes optical fiberssurrounded by a buffer tube. Strength members extend along oppositesides of the buffer tube.

The alternative splice enclosure 700′ includes the enclosure tube 710,two cable retention member 720, two locks 730, two second gaskets 740′,two second stabilizers 780, and two second end caps 790 of the spliceenclosure 700. Each cable segment 910, 920 is prepared, spliced, andsealed using the steps described above with respect to the spliceenclosure 700 and the second cable segment 120. In still otherimplementations, another alternative splice enclosure can be used tooptically couple two cable segments that are both configured like thefirst cable segment 110. For example, such a splice enclosure wouldinclude a strain-relief device 770 mounted to each cable segment.

From the forgoing detailed description, it will be evident thatmodifications and variations can be made in the methods of thedisclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An optical fiber cable comprising: a firstcable segment including at least one optical fiber enclosed in a firstjacket, the first cable segment also including at least one strengthmember; a second cable segment including at least one optical fiberenclosed in a second jacket, the second cable segment also including atleast one strength member that is less flexible than the strength memberof the first cable segment, the optical fiber of the second cablesegment being spliced to the optical fiber of the first cable segment; asplice enclosure mounted over the spliced optical fibers of the firstand second cable segments, the splice enclosure including an enclosuretube, a first end cap configured to mount to a first end of theenclosure tube, and a second end cap configured to mount to a second endof the enclosure tube; a first cable retention member configured to fitwithin the enclosure tube, the first cable retention member beingconfigured to directly contact and retain the strength member of thefirst cable segment; a first gasket configured to seal the enclosuretube at the first end when the first end cap is mounted to the first endof the tube; a second cable retention member configured to fit withinthe enclosure tube, the second cable retention member being configuredto directly contact and retain the strength member of the second cablesegment; and a second gasket configured to seal the enclosure tube atthe second end when the second end cap is mounted to the second end ofthe tube.
 2. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 1, wherein thestrength member of the first cable segment is crimped to the first cableretention member.
 3. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 1,wherein the strength member of the second cable segment is glued to thesecond cable retention member.
 4. The optical fiber cable as claimed inclaim 1, further comprising a strain relief device that couples to thefirst end cap.
 5. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe enclosure tube defines a first interior shoulder and a secondinterior shoulder, wherein the first cable retention member is retainedbetween the first interior shoulder and the first end cap, and whereinthe second cable retention member is retained between the secondinterior shoulder and the second end cap.
 6. The optical fiber cable asclaimed in claim 1, wherein the first cable retention member isidentical to the second cable retention member.
 7. The optical fibercable as claimed in claim 1, wherein each cable retention member definesa through-passage, wherein a first end of the through-passage is largerthan a second end of the through-passage, wherein the second end of thethrough-passage is sufficiently sized to enable passage of a bufferedoptical fiber.
 8. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 7, whereineach cable retention member defines an internal shoulder that areconfigured to inhibit passage of the respective strength member throughthe second end of the through-passage.
 9. The optical fiber cable asclaimed in claim 1, wherein splice enclosure is configured to enablingsliding of the cable retention members therethrough when the respectivecable retention member is positioned in a first rotational orientationrelative to the splice enclosure and to inhibit sliding of the cableretention members therethrough when the respective cable retentionmember is positioned in a second rotational orientation relative to thesplice enclosure.
 10. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 9,further comprising: a first lock member configured to fit over the firstcable retention member to rotationally lock the first cable retentionmember in the second rotational orientation; and a second lock memberconfigured to fit over the second cable retention member to rotationallylock the second cable retention member in the second rotationalorientation.
 11. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 10, whereinthe first gasket is disposed between the first lock member and the firstend cap; and wherein the second gasket is disposed between the secondlock member and the second end cap.
 12. The optical fiber cable asclaimed in claim 9, wherein each cable retention member includes a bodyhaving opposing first sides interconnected by opposing second sides, thefirst sides define planar external surfaces and the second sides defineconvexly curved external surfaces, the second sides also includingradially outward projections at one end of the respective cableretention member.
 13. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 12,wherein the splice enclosure defines opposing internal tracks protrudingradially into the splice enclosure from an inner wall of the spliceenclosure, wherein the splice enclosure has a first internalcross-dimension defined between opposing points on the inner wall of thesplice enclosure, and wherein the splice enclosure has a second internalcross-dimension defined between the opposing internal tracks, whereinthe first internal cross-dimension is sized to accommodate the radiallyoutward projections of the cable retention members, and wherein thesecond internal cross-dimension are not sized to accommodate theradially outward projections of the cable retention members.
 14. Theoptical fiber cable as claimed in claim 13, wherein axial ends of theinternal tracks are inwardly offset from axial ends of the spliceenclosure.
 15. The optical fiber cable as claimed in claim 13, furthercomprising: a first lock member configured to fit over the first cableretention member to rotationally lock the first cable retention memberin the second rotational orientation, the first lock member includingprongs extending from a base, the prongs spaced sufficiently apart toextend over the first sides of the first cable retention member; and asecond lock member configured to fit over the second cable retentionmember to rotationally lock the second cable retention member in thesecond rotational orientation, the second lock member including prongsextending from a base, the prongs spaced sufficiently apart to extendover the first sides of the second cable retention member.